Award-winning singer Timaya has revealed the release date for his upcoming ninth studio album titled, “Gladiator”.
Timaya shared the exciting news on his Instagram page, where he also took a moment to reflect on his journey in the music industry. He announced that the “Gladiator” album will be available to fans on August 15, 2024.
The veteran musician noted that it has been 18 years since he released his debut album, “True Story,” back in 2006. This long time highlights Timaya’s enduring presence and relevance in the Nigerian music scene. Over these years, he has consistently produced hit songs and albums that have resonated with audiences across Africa and beyond.
He wrote, “#Gladiator Album number 9, 18 years since True Story, and I’m not stopping! Aug 15th! Get ready!””
Despite his long and successful career, Timaya expressed that he has no plans to stop making music anytime soon. This statement suggests that fans can expect more music from him in the future, even after the release of “Gladiator.”
Numerous achievements mark Timaya’s journey in the music industry. He has won multiple awards, including several Nigeria Music Awards and a NEA Award. His unique blend of dancehall, reggae, and Afrobeats has earned him a dedicated fanbase and acclaim.
By announcing the “Gladiator” album, Timaya has sparked excitement among fans and industry insiders alike.
Many are curious to see how Timaya’s sound has evolved and what new elements he might bring to this ninth studio album. Given his track record of delivering hit songs, expectations are high for this new project.
As the release date approaches, Timaya will likely share more details about the album, possibly including track listings or collaborations with other artists. Fans will be eagerly watching his social media accounts for any additional information or sneak peeks of the upcoming “Gladiator” album.
Over the last 18 years, Timaya has established himself as a major force in the Afrobeats music scene. Throughout his career, he has consistently produced popular songs that have topped charts and resonated with audiences.
Timaya’s success isn’t limited to solo work. He has also collaborated with many well-known artists in the industry. Further cemented his status as a respected musician. These collaborations have often resulted in hit songs that have expanded his fanbase and showcased his ability to work in different styles within the Afrobeats genre.
His upcoming album “Gladiator” follows the recent success of its lead single “Cold Outside.” The song features fellow Nigerian artist BNXN. This single has already gained significant popularity, building anticipation for the full album release.
Olamide thrilled fans at the 2024 Flytime Fest, marking the return of the highly anticipated annual festival. The Grammy-nominated rapper made a grand comeback to the prestigious stage of Eko Hotel, headlining one of Nigeria’s most celebrated music events.
Sharing the spotlight with American rapper Gunna, who performed in Nigeria for the first time, Olamide brought unmatched energy to the festival.
Gunna delivered a dynamic set featuring his chart-topping hits like “Fukumean,” “Yosemite,” and “Drip Too Hard.” He created an unforgettable experience for the audience.
Olamide’s 2024 has been nothing short of remarkable. The YBNL boss released multiple guest features and his 10th solo project, Ikigai.
At the festival, he performed an electrifying medley of his iconic hits, showcasing the songs that have defined Nigerian music and solidified his dominance in the industry for over a decade. His stage presence left fans in awe and reaffirmed his legendary status.
The event also featured appearances by Afrobeats stars such as Omah Lay, Reminisce, Zlatan, and Bella Shmurda.
They have all previously collaborated with Olamide. Each artist brought their unique flair, elevating the night’s excitement.
To the audience’s delight, Grammy-winning superstar Wizkid made a surprise appearance. He performed tracks from his groundbreaking sixth album, Morayo, adding another layer of brilliance to the event.
The Flytime Fest, renowned for delivering top-tier entertainment, continues on December 24 and 25. The lineup promises headline performances from Grammy-nominated Ayra Starr and Davido, ensuring the festival concludes on a high note.
With such stellar acts and unforgettable moments, the 2024 Flytime Fest cements its place as a highlight of Nigeria’s entertainment calendar.
OdumoduBlvck recently praised Mavin Records founder Don Jazzy in an interview with Beats FM.
The rapper discussed his latest project, “Nothing Changed,” a collaborative effort with the Anti-World Gangsters crew. The album features Don Jazzy on the track “Asampete.”
OdumoduBlvck revealed that after recording “Asampete,” he felt the song would benefit from Don Jazzy’s contribution. When approached, Don Jazzy readily agreed to the request.
During their meeting, Don Jazzy not only added his vocals to the song but also surprised OdumoduBlvck with a generous gift of $10,000.
Impressively, Don Jazzy declined any royalties for his contribution to the track.
“When I went to his house to get his vocals, he gave me $10,000 and even my friend was asking me why he gave me such a huge amount of money,” he narrated in the interview.
OdumoduBlvck further praised Don Jazzy, describing him as the most original personality in the Nigerian music industry and a true icon.
“There’s nobody more original than Don Jazzy…The way the younger artists look up to Burna Boy, Davido, Wizkid, and Olamide today is how they used to look up to Don Jazzy”.
OdumoduBlvck’s praise for Don Jazzy’s generosity and influence on the Nigerian music industry echoes sentiments expressed by numerous artists whose careers have been shaped by the Mavin Records boss.
Four-time Grammy nominee Davido has credited Don Jazzy and D’banj’s flamboyant lifestyle for inspiring him to relocate to Nigeria and pursue his musical aspirations.
Don Jazzy’s philanthropic endeavours also continue to make headlines. Recently, he donated a substantial sum of 100 million naira to Very Dark Man’s charity.
Tems, a global music sensation, has solidified her position as one of Africa’s most successful artists, with her album captivating millions of fans worldwide and garnering numerous prestigious awards.
In a recent testament to her talent, her debut album secured the second spot on Billboard’s list of the best R&B albums of 2025.
This remarkable achievement places Tems alongside renowned artists such as Chris Brown, PartyNextDoor, Muni Long, and Bryson Tiller.
Furthermore, Billboard has praised Tems’ music for transcending the boundaries of Afrobeats, resonating with audiences across the globe.
“The Nigerian star finds her footing in the global spotlight and stands firmly in her purpose on her dazzling debut album Born in the Wild.
“She opens up about surviving her mental wilderness and learning to thrive in it on the opening acoustic ballad that shares the album’s title.
“And on the mid-tempo standout “Burning,” Tems confronts the trappings of her newfound stardom but finds comfort in the collective struggle. As someone who’s studied Céline Dion, Destiny’s Child, and Mariah Carey and dreamt of making soul-stirring songs that send people into their feelings, Tems succeeded with aplomb.
“Born in the Wild became her highest-charting project on Top R&B Albums (reaching No. 5) and marked her career-first entry on the Billboard 200, peaking at No. 56.
“And while Born in the Wild and “Love Me JeJe” earned Tems 2025 Grammy nominations for Best Global Music Album and Best African Music Performance, respectively, her best R&B song nod for “Burning” further reinforced the rich diversity of her music– and the notion that African artists like Tems cannot be bound to the catchall “Afrobeats” term, as their music has traveled well past the borders of the continent. – H.M.”
Tems’ debut album, “Born In The Wild,” received critical acclaim in the United States.
Indeed, the album earned a Grammy nomination for Best Global Album.
Additionally, her single “Burning” broke records by securing a nomination for Best R&B Song. Meanwhile, “Love Me Jeje” received a nomination for Best African Music Performance.
